As he embarks on his second tenure with the Sharks, Barclay Goodrow is “in a good place” after being claimed off waivers from the Rangers in June, a surprising development post-playoffs.
Despite the “widespread belief” that he had San Jose on his 15-team, no-trade list—previously reported by The Post’s Larry Brooks—Goodrow, who was instrumental in the Blueshirts’ Stanley Cup playoff run last season, finds himself with a rebuilding Sharks team after Rangers GM Chris Drury placed him on waivers, allowing San Jose to claim him.
“We had an extensive conversation, and he’s feeling good and is genuinely excited,” first-year Sharks coach Ryan Warsofsky mentioned on Saturday during the 2024-25 South Carolina Stingrays Fan Fest in North Charleston, as reported by NHL.com.
Barclay Goodrow joined the Sharks in June 2024. Charles Wenzelberg / New York Post
“He has experience with the Sharks and knows several players. He shares a close bond with [captain Logan Couture], which certainly helps. I believe he’s ready to move on from New York now. This is a business, and these transitions are simply a part of it.”
Goodrow dedicated most of his first six NHL seasons to the Sharks before being traded to the Lightning prior to their Stanley Cup campaign during the 2019-20 season.
He was a member of the Tampa Bay squad that secured consecutive championships in 2020-21.
In June 2021, Goodrow was traded to the Rangers, where he signed a six-year contract before the 2021-22 season and earned the title of alternate captain.
That year, the Blueshirts advanced to the Eastern Conference Final but were defeated by the Lightning in six games.
Barclay Goodrow (21) nets a goal against the Panthers during Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals in May 2024. Charles Wenzelberg / New York Post
Barclay Goodrow was initially traded to the Rangers in 2021. Jason Szenes /New York Post
Entering the 2023-24 season, the Rangers had renewed hopes for a Stanley Cup run after a playoff exit in the first round against the Devils in the spring of 2023.
Goodrow recorded four goals and eight assists over 80 regular-season games and contributed six goals and two assists in 16 playoff games as the Rangers reached the Eastern Conference Final, where they lost in six games to the eventual champion Panthers.
Despite his impressive postseason performance—most notably his two goals in Game 3 of the ECF—Goodrow came with a $3.61 million annual salary, prompting the organization to make changes as they continue to seek a Stanley Cup, now a three-decade-long pursuit.
Barclay Goodrow spent nearly six seasons with the Sharks. Getty Images
Warsofsky, who ascended from assistant coach to head coach after David Quinn’s firing in April, remarked that Goodrow has “responded exceptionally well” amidst the significant changes.
“He’s fully dedicated, and I’m thrilled because he’s a vital player for our team, and I believe he shares in that excitement,” the coach expressed.
The Sharks are scheduled to face the Rangers on November 14, while the Blueshirts will visit San Jose on March 29, 2025.
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Barclay Goodrow Embraces Fresh Start with Sharks After Waiver Claim from Rangers
Overview of Barclay Goodrow’s Journey
Barclay Goodrow, a name that has resonated within the NHL community, recently made headlines after being claimed off waivers by the San Jose Sharks from the New York Rangers. This move marks a significant chapter in his career, offering him a fresh start in a familiar environment. Let’s delve into Goodrow’s journey, his impact on the Sharks, and what this transition means for both him and the team.
Goodrow’s NHL Career Path
Barclay Goodrow was drafted by the Tampa Bay Lightning in the 2014 NHL Draft. His journey through the NHL has been nothing short of remarkable.
- Tampa Bay Lightning (2015-2020): Goodrow flourished, contributing to the team’s back-to-back Stanley Cup victories in 2020 and 2021.
- New York Rangers (2021-2023): After his time with the Lightning, Goodrow was traded to the Rangers, where he continued to develop his game.
- San Jose Sharks (2023-Present): Claimed off waivers, Goodrow returns to the franchise that originally drafted him, looking to reclaim his form.
Why Goodrow Was Claimed
Several factors contributed to the Sharks’ decision to claim Goodrow off waivers:
- Versatility: Goodrow’s ability to play both center and wing makes him a valuable asset for any lineup.
- Experience: With playoff experience and a strong work ethic, he brings leadership qualities to a young Sharks team.
- Familiarity: Goodrow’s prior connections with the Sharks organization may help him reintegrate seamlessly.
Impact on the Sharks’ Roster
Goodrow’s arrival is expected to have several positive effects on the Sharks’ roster:
Enhanced Team Dynamics
- Goodrow’s work ethic and competitive spirit are likely to inspire his teammates.
- His experience in high-pressure situations can guide younger players during challenging moments.
Strategic Flexibility
Goodrow’s versatility allows the Sharks to experiment with different line combinations, improving their offensive strategies:
Position | Line Combination |
---|---|
Center | Goodrow – Couture – Meier |
Left Wing | Goodrow – Barabanov – Hertl |
Right Wing | Goodrow – Gregor – Kunin |
Benefits of Goodrow’s Fresh Start
Goodrow’s move back to the Sharks is packed with potential benefits:
- Reclamation of Form: Goodrow may find a renewed sense of purpose in a familiar setting.
- Boost in Confidence: Playing for a team that trusts him can enhance his performance.
- Community Connection: Being back in San Jose allows him to reconnect with fans and the community.
What to Expect from Goodrow
As Goodrow begins this fresh chapter, fans can anticipate several key outcomes:
On-Ice Performance
- Expect improved offensive output as he settles into the lineup.
- Defensively, his experience can bolster the Sharks’ overall structure.
Leadership Role
Goodrow will likely be expected to take on a mentorship role, helping develop younger players:
- Sharing insights from his playoff experiences.
- Encouraging a strong work ethic and team-first mentality.
First-Hand Experience: Goodrow’s Perspective
Upon his arrival in San Jose, Goodrow shared his thoughts on the transition:
“I’m excited to be back where it all started for me. The Sharks have a young and talented team, and I hope to bring my experience to help elevate our game. I believe we can achieve great things together.” – Barclay Goodrow
Case Studies: Similar Waiver Claims in the NHL
The NHL has seen successful transitions for players claimed off waivers. Here are a few examples:
Player | Previous Team | New Team</th | Impact |
---|---|---|---|
Michael Hutchinson | Toronto Maple Leafs | Winnipeg Jets | Provided vital goaltending depth |
Brandon Pirri | New York Rangers | Florida Panthers | Boosted offensive options significantly |
Jesse Puljujärvi | Edmonton Oilers | Carolina Hurricanes | Revitalized his career with a fresh start |
Practical Tips for Fans Following Goodrow’s Career
For fans eager to follow Goodrow’s journey, consider these tips:
- Stay Updated: Follow official Sharks social media accounts for real-time updates.
- Attend Games: Experience the excitement live at SAP Center.
- Participate in Fan Events: Engage with the community and show support for Goodrow.
Conclusion
Barclay Goodrow’s move to the San Jose Sharks after being claimed off waivers from the New York Rangers represents a new chapter filled with promise. His extensive experience, coupled with his potential to mentor younger players, will be invaluable for the Sharks. Fans can look forward to his contributions on and off the ice as he embarks on this exciting journey.
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